Conversation Tip #9: Ask questions

Questions keep the conversation flowing Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons”Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.” -Voltaire (1694-1778) French Enlightenment WriterAsking questions always generates more conversation; after all, an answer always follows. As mentioned before, asking questions provides a quick way to find common interests with people. Questions like “What is...

Read More

Conversation Tip #8: Engage in the surrounding world!

Immersion in literature, current events, arts stimulates conversation Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons“When you’re curious, you find lots of interesting things to do.” -Walt Disney (1901-1966) American business magnate, animatorAre your students sometimes unsure of what to talk about? Perhaps they could bring up this morning’s headlines, last week’s bestseller or Friday’s new film release....

Read More

Conversation Tip #7: Appreciate silence

Accept–and enjoy–the inevitability of silence! “Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom.” -Francis Bacon (1561-1626) English philosopher Many Americans feel uncomfortable with silence, even on crowded elevators or standing in lines with strangers. Some Americans also feel uncomfortable with pauses or periods of silence in conversations. Pauses in conversation occur frequently, and...

Read More

Conversation Tip #6: As always, consider context

Context determines boundaries of conversation “Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners.” -Laurence Sterne (1713-1768) Anglo-Irish novelist How wonderful that there are so many possible relationships to cultivate through conversation! Students, too, must appreciate the variety of things to talk about with every person in their family, classroom and...

Read More

Conversation Tip #5: Search for common interests

Finding commonalities sparks conversations Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons “Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.” -Albert Camus (1913-1960), French novelist and Nobel Prize winner We can learn a great deal from our conversations, even about our own interests and hobbies! Finding a...

Read More

Conversation Tip #4: Carry a respectful tone

Pair your words with a respectful tone Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons “Beautiful tone, beautiful heart.” -Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998) Japanese violinist, creator of the “Suzuki Method” Proper tone is essential for the effective conversationalist and communicator, after all, having a good conversation seems unattainable without clear, mutual respect. A student’s conversation partner may find...

Read More